It’s that special time of year of blooming flowers, shrubs, and trees, and a sense of renewal is in the air. We are pleased to announce progress in our Points of Pride campaign and other beautification efforts here in Polk County.

First, the NCDOT has agreed to provide pickup six times per year for some of our most littered highways. These roadways are as follows: I-26 East- and West-bound, entire county; US 74 from Rutherford County line to I-26; NC Hwy. 9 from Rutherford County line to US 74; NC Hwy. 108 from Rutherford County line to US 74; Hwy. 176 from South Carolina line to Henderson County line.

We were able to award eight matching fund grants for beautification efforts within the county. These recipients are listed below:

• Blue Firefly Bed & Breakfast in Saluda for tree plantings
• Tryon Downtown Development Association for signage and landscaping of the Tryon Historical Museum
• Saluda Depot for a train inspired information board
• Wildflour Bakery for a screened enclosure
• Tryon Historical Museum for a small “Morris” reproduction
• City of Columbus for bench seating around the courthouse
• Town of Saluda for tree grates
• Meanwhile Beer and Wine for planters and materials.

I would like to personally thank my fellow board members for their continued hard work and efforts to make these enhancements happen. And a big thank you to Joe Cooper, our fearless leader, who keeps us focused and moving forward.

We still encourage the Polk County Commissioners (sitting members and individuals running for office) to provide us with any ideas for county enhancements, as we feel this is of great importance. Please contact me directly if you would like to contribute your ideas and interest in helping our cause.

Any feedback from our county neighbors is always welcome and reviewed.

 Contact the Polk County Appearance Commission at P.O. Box 308, Columbus, NC 28722, call 828-894-2324, visit beautifulfoothills.org, or email me at davidfriday@msn.com.